Pastor scheme starts in Stirling

Apr 1 2009 by Stephen Robertson, Stirling Observer Wednesday

STIRLING’S new street pastors scheme had a successful launch at the weekend.

Friday evening saw the volunteers taking to the streets alongside police to offer advice and assistance to late night revellers.

Equipped with first-aid kits, space blankets, anti-spike bottle-stoppers and flip-flops, they were backed by police officers.

Superintendent David Flynn said: “The evening went very well and the street pastors were well received.

“The presence of the pastors is a further enhancement to community planning partners’ efforts to keep the city centre as safe as possible for the many people who travel in to utilise Stirling’s vibrant nightlife.”

He added: “I am aware that the Street Pastors assisted a number of people during Friday night and into the early hours of Saturday morning.

“This was an extremely positive start and we are looking to build and develop working arrangements over the coming weeks.”

Similar schemes already operate in Aberdeen, Dunfermline, Glasgow, Inverness and Perth, with more projects planned.